Mysuru: Members of the Aramane Ulisi Horata Samiti staged a protest in front of Kote Anjaneya Swamy Temple in Mysuru on Thursday, condemning District-in-charge Minister Yathindra Siddaramaiah’s remarks about the erstwhile royal family and Mysuru Palace.
The protest followed a controversy over the Minister’s response to a suggestion by Pramoda Devi Wadiyar regarding changes to the Dasara celebrations and procession. His remarks about the erstwhile royal family and Pramoda Devi reportedly triggered criticism among sections of the public.
Although Pramoda Devi had appealed to various organisations to withdraw their planned protests, the Aramane Ulisi Horata Samiti went ahead with its demonstration, expressing support for the royal family.
Supporters of the BJP and JD(S) also joined the protest.
Protesters demand unconditional apology
More than 350 people gathered near the Kote Anjaneya Swamy Temple, holding placards and raising slogans against Yathindra Siddaramaiah.
The protesters demanded that the Minister resign from his post and issue an unconditional apology for his remarks about the royal family and Mysuru Palace.
The demonstration was organised amid growing criticism of the Minister’s comments, with participants expressing their displeasure over what they described as disrespect towards the erstwhile royal family.
Yathindra rules out apology
Yathindra Siddaramaiah had defended his statement in response to the criticism over his remarks and ruled out tendering an apology.
In a separate response, he maintained that his statements were being misconstrued for political gains and said there was no question of apologising.
The controversy has drawn reactions from political leaders and organisations in Mysuru, with supporters of the royal family continuing to express their opposition to the Minister’s remarks.
Former MLA criticises Congress
Former MLA L Nagendra, who took part in the protest, alleged that Congress governments had repeatedly made statements against the erstwhile royal family.
He said the people of Mysuru would teach the Congress a lesson over the issue.
Former Mayor Shivakumar, former deputy mayor Shailendra and several others also participated in the demonstration.
The protest highlighted the political and public reactions to the exchange between the Minister and Pramoda Devi Wadiyar over the conduct of the Dasara celebrations.